sodium intake

Question
Hi.  What is the new recommended daily intake of sodium?  Thanks

Answer
Hi,

The Institute of Medicine, part of the National Academy of Sciences and the FDA, recommends not exceeding 2000 - 1500 milligrams per day. But that is the maximum, and I rarely go above 500mg myself.

Sodium is required in the body to regulate blood volume and blood pressure. Also aids in the transmission of nerve impulses. Used to help regulate the acid/base balance in the body.

BUT:-

Excessive intake of sodium is associated with hypertension. Also there was a very strong correlation between a high sodium consumption and high blood pressure, especially in sodium-sensitive people.

Most dietitians agree that high sodium intakes can be harmful. Sodium can also increase the risk of oedema (swelling, particularly in joints, caused by an accumulation of fluids). The current average sodium intake of adults in the UK is 3200 mg per day. And in America it can be up to 10,000 mg per day due to al the salty fast food out there.

Thanks.

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